Evaluating Information Services Offered to Physically Challenged Users to Satisfy Their Information Needs: The Case of Kenya National Library Services, Headquarters, Nairobi

Abstract

Library users who are physically challenged have continued to face challenges in accessing and utilizing libraries in Kenya. Libraries have always played a significant role, enabling people to engage with all kinds of information and knowledge resources. A library has a role to serve all members of its community, providing a wide range of materials and services which may be used for education, information or recreation. Accordingly, the study sought to evaluate information services offered to physically challenged users to satisfy their information needs at Kenya National library services, Nairobi. The study sought to determine the information sources offered to physically challenged users. The researcher used a case study research design and the whole population was used to carry out the study. The data was collected using questionnaires, interviews, observation and documentary analysis were used as secondary data collection methods. Data analysis was done quantitatively and qualitatively and presented using frequency tables, graphs and figures to give a clear visual presentation. Findings show that respondents used the library for several reasons including reading newspapers, reading text book, research, internet, looking for personal information and leisure. There was a general observation that the facilities and equipment for physically challenged users need to be improved. The study recommends that every library should provide a service which caters for every one of its users, including clientele who have a disability.

Keywords: Disability, Information, Patrons, Physical disability.

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